HONOLULU -- With Hawaii children back in school, it is time to get those flu shots again.

The state Department of Health on Monday kicked off its annual program to prevent the spread of flu.

Prevention is the name of the game as the Department of Health will offer free flu vaccines to 333 public, private and charter schools this fall. The program will begin dispensing vaccinations statewide on Oct.12.

Parents must follow some simple guidelines if they want their children to get the shots. The deadline to return consent forms is Sept. 9.

"By vaccinating our children against the flu, we can help reduce the number of lost school days due to illness," said Lt. Governor James R. "Duke" Aiona Jr.

Children can choose to take the vaccination by needle or nasal mist. The Department of Health simply wants to prevent as many outbreaks as possible.

Taking the extra step now could prevent a headache later down the road, officials said.